Self-drive road trip · New Zealand
An unforgettable journey from Auckland to Queenstown, combining Māori culture, volcanic landscapes, the Cook Strait, dramatic coastlines and the magnificent Southern Alps.
Per person, estimatedUS$3,102
Experience the best of both New Zealand islands on this carefully paced self-drive adventure from Auckland to Queenstown. Discover Rotorua’s Māori heritage and geothermal wonders, Lake Taupō, Wellington, the Cook Strait and Marlborough Sounds before continuing through Nelson, Kaikōura, Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Aoraki/Mount Cook and Wānaka to Queenstown. The suggested itinerary combines iconic scenery with comfortable stays and can be adjusted to suit your preferred dates, hotels and pace.
One epic route through both islands, start to finish
Drive at your own pace with full flexibility
11 destinations from Auckland to Queenstown
Scenic Cook Strait ferry through the Marlborough Sounds
Volcanic plateaus, alpine lakes and the Southern Alps
Hotels at every budget, from hostels to 5-star
Stargazing in one of the world's top dark sky reserves
Every stop has a hotel already chosen for you. Open a stop to swap the hotel, add activities or stay longer. The price updates as you go.
Want more time somewhere? Open any stop and tap Add a night. Every day after it moves back, and your dates and price update automatically.
Stay longer or shorter in Auckland, New Zealand
Your stay in Auckland, New ZealandDays 1–3
Each night you add pushes the rest of the trip back by a day. Your dates, hotels, car and price all update for you, and you can undo it anytime.
Pick up your car at AUCKLAND (AKL), from 10:00. It's yours for all 18 days.
Arrive at Auckland Airport, collect your rental car and settle in for two nights. Explore the waterfront, Viaduct Harbour, Wynyard Quarter and the city’s volcanic viewpoints. On your free day, visit the Auckland Museum, cross the harbour to Devonport or take the ferry to Waiheke Island for beaches, vineyards and coastal scenery.
Overnight: Attic Backpackers, night 1 of 2
“This centrally-located Auckland hostel impresses guests with its excellent kitchen facilities, welcoming atmosphere, and genuinely helpful staff who create a friendly, social vibe perfect for solo travelers and small groups. The comfortable common areas and clean spaces make it an ideal base for exploring New Zealand's city center.”
Included in your trip2 Nights, 31 Wellesley Street
No set plans here. Wander, linger over dinner and let Auckland, New Zealand surprise you.
Stay longer or shorter in Rotorua, New Zealand
Your stay in Rotorua, New ZealandDays 3–5
Each night you add pushes the rest of the trip back by a day. Your dates, hotels, car and price all update for you, and you can undo it anytime.
Drive south through the Waikato countryside to Rotorua. Spend two nights discovering bubbling mud pools, geysers, steaming lakes and the living traditions of Māori culture. Optional experiences include Te Puia, Wai-O-Tapu, the Redwoods Forest, a Māori cultural evening and Rotorua’s naturally heated spas.
Overnight: Haka House Rotorua, night 1 of 2
“Haka House Rotorua is a spotless, modern hostel loved by guests for its spacious, well-equipped rooms with comfortable beds and excellent storage, generous kitchen facilities perfect for group meals, and prime location within easy walking distance of Rotorua's town center and attractions. Visitors consistently praise the friendly, helpful staff and vibrant social atmosphere, making it a standout choice for backpackers and families exploring New Zealand.”
Included in your trip2 Nights, 1278 Haupapa Street
No set plans here. Wander, linger over dinner and let Rotorua, New Zealand surprise you.
Stay longer or shorter in Taupō, New Zealand
Your stay in Taupō, New ZealandDays 5–6
Each night you add pushes the rest of the trip back by a day. Your dates, hotels, car and price all update for you, and you can undo it anytime.
Continue to Lake Taupō, stopping at geothermal attractions along the way. Visit Huka Falls, walk beside New Zealand’s largest lake and enjoy views toward the volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park. Optional boat and kayaking trips visit the Māori rock carvings at Mine Bay.
Overnight: Haka House Taupo
“Haka House is a highly praised backpackers hostel in Taupo's prime location, just a short walk from downtown and close to adventure attractions like bungy jumping and Huka Falls. Guests consistently highlight the exceptionally friendly and helpful staff, sparkling clean facilities, warm and comfortable rooms, well-equipped communal kitchens, and welcoming atmosphere that makes it perfect for budget travelers and group gatherings alike.”
Included in your trip1 night, 56 Kaimanawa Street
No set plans here. Wander, linger over dinner and let Taupō, New Zealand surprise you.
Stay longer or shorter in Wellington, New Zealand
Your stay in Wellington, New ZealandDays 6–8
Each night you add pushes the rest of the trip back by a day. Your dates, hotels, car and price all update for you, and you can undo it anytime.
Travel across the Central Plateau to Wellington for two nights. Explore New Zealand’s compact capital, its waterfront, Cuba Street and the national museum Te Papa Tongarewa. Ride the historic cable car or visit Wētā Workshop. Return the North Island car in Wellington if required by the confirmed supplier arrangement.
Overnight: Haka House Wellington, night 1 of 2
“Experience exceptional hospitality at this vibrant city-centre hostel, where friendly staff go the extra mile to ensure your comfort. Guests rave about the spacious kitchens, spotless facilities, prime waterfront location near shopping and entertainment, and welcoming atmosphere perfect for meeting fellow travelers—making it a standout choice for budget-conscious explorers.”
Included in your trip2 Nights, 292 Wakefield St
No set plans here. Wander, linger over dinner and let Wellington, New Zealand surprise you.
Stay longer or shorter in Nelson, New Zealand
Your stay in Nelson, New ZealandDays 8–9
Each night you add pushes the rest of the trip back by a day. Your dates, hotels, car and price all update for you, and you can undo it anytime.
Cross Cook Strait as a foot passenger and collect a second rental car in Picton when required by the selected supplier. The ferry journey passes through the beautiful Marlborough Sounds. Continue to sunny Nelson for its galleries, cafés, waterfront and relaxed atmosphere.
Overnight: The Honest Lawyer, an Ascend Collection Hotel
“Guests loved this charming, character-filled hotel featuring excellent dining with standout dishes like perfectly cooked steaks and delicious chowder, paired with attentive service from a dedicated team. The comfortable, well-maintained accommodations, welcoming atmosphere, lively pub with live music, and convenient voucher system for caravan and motorhome guests made visitors feel genuinely valued and eager to recommend the place.”
Included in your trip1 night, 1 Point Road
No set plans here. Wander, linger over dinner and let Nelson, New Zealand surprise you.
Stay longer or shorter in Kaikōura, New Zealand
Your stay in Kaikōura, New ZealandDays 9–10
Each night you add pushes the rest of the trip back by a day. Your dates, hotels, car and price all update for you, and you can undo it anytime.
Follow the spectacular Pacific coastline south to Kaikōura, with mountains rising close behind the sea. Optional wildlife experiences include whale-watching cruises, dolphin encounters and the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway, where New Zealand fur seals are often seen.
Overnight: Alpine-pacific Holiday Park
Included in your trip1 night, 69 Beach Road
No set plans here. Wander, linger over dinner and let Kaikōura, New Zealand surprise you.
Stay longer or shorter in Christchurch, New Zealand
Your stay in Christchurch, New ZealandDays 10–11
Each night you add pushes the rest of the trip back by a day. Your dates, hotels, car and price all update for you, and you can undo it anytime.
Continue south to Christchurch. Explore the rebuilt central city, Riverside Market, the Botanic Gardens, the Avon River and the contemporary arts precinct. The city combines English heritage, innovative new architecture and an excellent food scene.
Overnight: Haka House Christchurch
“Haka House Christchurch delights guests with its unbeatable location steps from the airport bus, city centre, Botanical Gardens, and Riverside Market, combined with exceptional value and genuinely warm, helpful staff. Guests consistently praise the spotless, comfortable rooms, well-equipped shared kitchens, inviting communal spaces perfect for socializing, and convenient amenities like free parking after 6 PM.”
Included in your trip1 night, 36 Hereford St
No set plans here. Wander, linger over dinner and let Christchurch, New Zealand surprise you.
Stay longer or shorter in Lake Tekapo, New Zealand
Your stay in Lake Tekapo, New ZealandDays 11–12
Each night you add pushes the rest of the trip back by a day. Your dates, hotels, car and price all update for you, and you can undo it anytime.
Drive across the Canterbury Plains and into the Mackenzie Basin. Lake Tekapo’s turquoise water, the Church of the Good Shepherd and the surrounding mountain landscape provide a memorable introduction to the Southern Alps. After dark, enjoy some of New Zealand’s clearest skies in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.
Overnight: Haka House Lake Tekapo
“Haka House Tekapo offers an unbeatable lakeside location with stunning views, comfortable beds, and exceptional cleanliness that guests consistently praise. With a welcoming atmosphere, well-equipped communal spaces, helpful staff, and the perfect setting for meeting fellow travelers, this hostel delivers great value for budget-conscious visitors exploring Lake Tekapo.”
Included in your trip1 night, 5 Motuariki Lane
No set plans here. Wander, linger over dinner and let Lake Tekapo, New Zealand surprise you.
Stay longer or shorter in Mount Cook Village, New Zealand
Your stay in Mount Cook Village, New ZealandDays 12–13
Each night you add pushes the rest of the trip back by a day. Your dates, hotels, car and price all update for you, and you can undo it anytime.
Follow the shore of Lake Pukaki toward Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. Choose from alpine walks including the Hooker Valley Track and Tasman Glacier viewpoints, subject to weather and track conditions. Scenic flights and guided glacier experiences can be reserved locally.
Overnight: YHA Mount Cook
“This charming lodge-style hostel impresses guests with its prime location near bus stops and Mount Cook attractions, spotless facilities including a well-equipped kitchen, complimentary sauna, and reliable Wi-Fi. Travelers rave about the warm, social atmosphere, friendly staff, comfortable beds, free parking, and excellent amenities that make it an outstanding choice for budget-conscious explorers seeking genuine hospitality.”
Included in your trip1 night, 1 Bowen Drive, 1
No set plans here. Wander, linger over dinner and let Mount Cook Village, New Zealand surprise you.
Stay longer or shorter in Wānaka, New Zealand
Your stay in Wānaka, New ZealandDays 13–15
Each night you add pushes the rest of the trip back by a day. Your dates, hotels, car and price all update for you, and you can undo it anytime.
Travel through the Mackenzie Country and over the scenic Lindis Pass to Wānaka. Spend two nights beside the alpine lake, visit the famous Wānaka Tree, explore the waterfront or choose from hiking, cycling, wine tasting and scenic-flight experiences around Mount Aspiring National Park.
Overnight: Haka House Wanaka, night 1 of 2
“Haka House Wanaka is a top-rated hostel perfectly positioned steps from Lake Wanaka and town center, offering clean, comfortable accommodations with spacious shared dorms featuring privacy curtains, a well-equipped kitchen, stunning lake views, and an exceptionally warm and welcoming staff that creates a fantastic community atmosphere for travelers.”
Included in your trip2 Nights, 94 Brownston Street
No set plans here. Wander, linger over dinner and let Wānaka, New Zealand surprise you.
Stay longer or shorter in Queenstown, New Zealand
Your stay in Queenstown, New ZealandDays 15–18
Each night you add pushes the rest of the trip back by a day. Your dates, hotels, car and price all update for you, and you can undo it anytime.
Complete the journey with three nights in Queenstown beside Lake Wakatipu. Ride the Skyline Gondola, cruise aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw, visit Arrowtown or explore the Gibbston Valley wineries. Adventure activities range from jet boating and rafting to bungy jumping. Return your rental car at Queenstown Airport on departure day.
Overnight: Haka House Queenstown, night 1 of 3
“This welcoming hostel in Queenstown offers an unbeatable location just steps from town center and the beautiful lake, paired with spotless rooms, thoughtful amenities like individual charging ports and a well-equipped kitchen, and genuinely friendly staff who go the extra mile to make guests feel at home.”
Included in your trip3 Nights, 6 Henry Street
No set plans here. Wander, linger over dinner and let Queenstown, New Zealand surprise you.
A rental car is included for all 18 days. Want more room or comfort? Upgrade below.
Pick up, day 1AUCKLAND (AKL), from 10:00
Return, day 17QUEENSTOWN (ZQN), by 10:00
Good to knowUnlimited miles. Rates assume a driver aged 30 or over.
Operated by NZFlyDrive.
Download this tour's PDF brochure and plan offline: every day, your hotels, the car and our phone numbers.
Our travel experts know these roads. Call and we'll tailor the trip with you.
Estimated total, 2 travelersUS$6,204
How this road trip stacks up against similar self-drive tours, side by side.
| Tour | |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price, per person | ||||
| From | US$3,102 | US$1,371 | US$888 | US$1,139 |
| Per night | US$182 / night | US$114 / night | US$63 / nightBest | US$81 / night |
| The trip | ||||
| Duration | 18 days, 17 nights | 13 days, 12 nights | 15 days, 14 nights | 15 days, 14 nights |
| You're viewing this tour | View tour | View tour | View tour |
"From" prices are per person for 2 travelers sharing, at the cheapest hotels. Driving is estimated from the stop locations.
| Stops | 11 | 5 | 4 | 6 |
|---|
| Places | Auckland, Rotorua, Taupō, Wellington, Nelson, Kaikōura, Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Mount Cook Village, Wānaka, Queenstown | Lake Tekapo, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park Visitor Centre Larch Grove, Wānaka, Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park & Motels Manapouri Te Anau Highway, Queenstown | Windhoek, Okaukuejo, Maun, Kasane | Santiago, Hanga Roa, Santa Cruz, Pucón, Puerto Varas |
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| Start and finish | Auckland Airport – Queenstown Airport | Christchurch – Queenstown | Windhoek International Airport – Kasane International Airport | Santiago – Puerto Montt |
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| On the road |
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| Total driving | About 1,725 km | About 500 km | About 1,760 km | About 10,550 km |
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| Longest drive day | About 390 km | About 175 kmBest | About 1030 km | About 4705 km |
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| Car included | Compact | Compact | Yes | Economy |
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| Stays and extras |
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| Hotels included | 3 to 5-star hotels | 3 to 5-star hotels | 3 to 5-star hotels | 3 to 4-star hotels |
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| Hotel choice | About 10 hotels per stopBest | About 10 hotels per stop | About 6 hotels per stop | About 6 hotels per stop |
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| Airport transfer | Not included | Not included | Not included | Not included |
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FromUS$888per person
